What does "juvenile justice" pertain to?

"Juvenile justice" pertains specifically to the legal process and framework governing individuals under the age of 18 who are accused of committing crimes. This system is distinct from the adult criminal justice system and has its own set of laws, procedures, and rehabilitative goals tailored to the needs of minors.

In juvenile justice, the focus is often on rehabilitation rather than punishment, recognizing that young people are still developing and may have different social and psychological needs compared to adults. The approach taken in juvenile cases aims to guide young offenders towards positive behavioral changes and reintegration into society, rather than solely imposing punitive measures.

Understanding this context is critical to grasping the overarching principles of juvenile justice. It emphasizes the importance of providing support and resources to help juveniles learn from their mistakes, rather than solely enforcing consequences.